Blach Leads ‘Stand-Down for Safety’ Event

Hollister, Calif. (May 6, 2016) - San Jose-based general contractor Blach Construction led a Stand-Down event on Wednesday, as part of its commitment to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s National Fall Prevention ‘Stand-Down’ Initiative.

The purpose of the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Stand-Down Initiative is to raise awareness about fall hazards in the construction industry - Falls were the leading cause of death for construction workers in 2014, according to OSHA.

Stand-Downs were held on job sites throughout the country, including Blach’s event at San Benito High School’s new physical education building site in Hollister, Calif.. More than 50 local officials, employees, school representatives and trade workers attended and participated in fall prevention demonstrations at the event.

“At Blach, safety is a core value,” said Mike Holland, director of environmental health and safety for Blach Construction. “Our field teams are passionate about maintaining a culture of safety and encourage multi-trade accountability, and this event helped to remind all of our crews, partners, visitors and guests that safety is Blach’s #1 priority.”

In 2015, more than 2.5 million workers attended a Stand-Down event. This year, OSHA attempted to reach 5 million workers.

In addition to supporting OSHA’s Stand-Down Initiative, Blach works closely with Cal/OSHA and OSHA to strengthen its overall safety efforts. For example, the company participates in the Voluntary Protection Program (VPP) - the highest safety program available in the industry. Approval into the VPP is OSHA’s official recognition of the outstanding efforts of employers and employees who have achieved exemplary occupational safety and health. Last year, two of Blach Construction’s active project sites were awarded VPP status. To learn more about Blach’s VPP projects, please click here.